Mahindra Thar Facelift Launched at ₹9.99 Lakh: Updated Design, Features and Lower Prices Rival Jimny in India

Mahindra has launched the new Thar facelift in India, introducing subtle design tweaks, enhanced comfort, and updated connectivity features while also reshuffling its variant line-up and revising prices to intensify competition against the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. The latest iteration starts at an aggressive ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), marking a strategic reduction compared to the outgoing model and positioning it as a more value-driven offering in the lifestyle SUV segment.

Key Changes in the Thar Facelift

The refreshed Thar debuts with a distinct new front grille, dual-tone bumpers, and revised R18 alloy wheels, lending it a mildly upgraded road presence. Inside, Mahindra introduces an all-black dashboard, a new steering wheel, and six colour choices including two fresh options: Tango Red and Battleship Grey. Enhanced comfort comes courtesy of a sliding central armrest, rear AC vents for rear passengers, new door-mounted power windows, a rear wash wiper, internally operated fuel lid, and a dead pedal for automatics.

Variant Lineup and Feature Additions

The revised variant structure brings the AXT variant as a fresh entry point, followed by the LXT in both RWD and 4WD configurations. Key features now standard or newly added in upper trims include a 26.03 cm HD touchscreen (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), rear-view camera, adventure-oriented Gen II statistics, and Tyre Direction Monitoring System. The variant portfolio also aligns with customer feedback by offering multiple petrol and diesel engine options paired with 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes across RWD and 4WD layouts. 

Pricing: Reduction and Comparison

The facelifted Thar’s base price is around ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 less than that of the outgoing model, reflecting both GST-driven adjustments and Mahindra's strategy to undercut rivals. In contrast, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny now starts at ₹12.32 lakh and tops out at ₹14.29 lakh. The Thar’s starting price is significantly lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

Facelift Approach: Conservative Moves

Despite the updates, Mahindra has retained most of the mechanicals and off-road capability, with visible changes mostly limited to aesthetics, interior trims, and tech enhancements. This conservative approach suggests a stable, evolutionary upgrade rather than a dramatic overhaul, allowing the Thar to continue appealing to both urban buyers and die-hard adventure fans without alienating its core audience.

Mahindra’s new Thar facelift delivers calculated upgrades, sharper pricing, and additional comfort, all while maintaining its off-road DNA and buyer focus, ensuring potent rivalry with the Jimny for India’s adventurous SUV-seekers.